Alcohol and Drug Abuse Information

Alcohol and drug abuse may go unnoticed at first but over time, the symptoms will become apparent. Substance abuse causes difficulties at home, at work, and in social relationships. Getting professional help is the only way to treat alcohol and drug abuse.

Symptoms

• An individual abusing drugs or alcohol may exhibit some of the following symptoms: bloodshot eyes or large pupils, changes in appetite, lack of concern for physical appearance, slurred speech, unexplained need for money, changes in personality or attitude, and mood swings. The person may also begin associating with a new crowd or may constantly get into trouble.

Risks

• Those abusing drugs and alcohol are at higher risk for socially unacceptable behaviors such as becoming involved in crime, unsafe sex, or self-inflicted injuries. Children and teenagers who abuse drugs and alcohol have a higher drop-out rate than non-users. Substance abuse during pregnancy increases the risk of miscarriage, birth defects, still-born births and infants with learning disabilities.

Treatment

• Check yourself into a rehab center if you suspect you have a problem with drugs or alcohol. When trying to get help for someone you care about, you must be there to support them throughout the course of therapy. It is very difficult to break the cycle of substance abuse without supportive friends and family. Contact a local drug or alcohol rehabilitation center to find out if an intervention is appropriate.